Coastal Hillside Tree Care in Montara, CA

Call Us (650) 355-1277

Professional Tree Care Services – Montara, CA

Montara sits where the coast meets the mountain, exposing its trees to heavy ocean wind and salt while wooded slopes behind town add real fire risk. Precision Tree Care Inc. is a fully licensed and insured local company providing safe tree and emergency removal, cabling and bracing for wind-stressed trees, fire-prevention brush clearance, expert pruning, crown thinning, and certified arborist services.

Whether a coastal tree is destabilized by wind or brush needs clearing on the hillside for defensible space, our crews use technical climbing, rigging, and skid steers to work safely on difficult terrain. Every estimate includes dump fees and haul-away with no hidden charges, and we leave your property completely clean. Montara homeowners trust Precision Tree Care for dependable tree care backed by California Contractors License #907593 and ISA certification.

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Fire Prevention

Creating defensible space with brush clearing, vegetation thinning, and strategic trimming to reduce fire risk.
Protects your home and improves overall property safety.

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Stump Grinding & Removal

Grinding stumps below soil level or fully removing the stump and root system for a clean, usable area.

Backfilling and complete cleanup always included.

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View Clearing & Fine Pruning

Selective pruning and trimming to open up views and improve property appearance while supporting tree health.
Enhances structure, visibility, and landscape value.

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Brush Clearance & Mowing

Removal of overgrown brush, weeds, and vegetation to improve visibility, clean up the property, and support fire-prevention efforts.

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Challenging Tree Removal

Safe removal of trees in difficult, confined, or hazardous areas using advanced techniques and experienced crews.

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Skid Steer Services

Fast and efficient lot clearing, brush removal, grading, and stump cleanup performed with professional skid-steer machinery.

Skid Steer Services

Arborist Reports & Insurance

Certified arborists provide detailed reports, health assessments, and documentation for permits, insurance claims, and property requirements.

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Crown Reduction & Thinning

Targeted pruning techniques that reduce canopy size, lighten heavy branches, and improve tree health, safety, and appearance.

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Tree Cabling & Bracing

Support systems installed to stabilize weak, leaning, or split trees and reduce the risk of limb or trunk failure.

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Call Us! (650) 355-1277

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Your Local Tree Care Experts in Montara

Precision Tree Care Inc. proudly serves homeowners throughout Montara, from the coastal neighborhoods to the wooded lots below Montara Mountain. Whether a storm has left a tree leaning, brush needs clearing before fire season, or a hazardous tree must come down, our crew is ready. Fill out the form below for a free estimate.

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(650) 355-1277

5 Star Rated Yelp Business

       EXCELLENT  
   Based on 174 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
      Posted on Yelp  
   
   Arthur A Hagan 
 September 10, 2026
 
 
 Verified They did a great job pruning a tree in my side yard. Fast, Neat and Clean. Would definitely use them again!
  
 
     Posted on Yelp  
   
   Andrew T. 
 August 23, 2026
 
 
 Verified This is my third time reviewing this company.

Once again, I cannot say enough good things about the Company, but Ryan who came out and did the estimate, but the crew and their professionalism. When they left the backyard was actually cleaner than when they got here.

These are the reasons I will continue to use them and highly recommend them to anyone who needs tree work if it is for just tightening up or extensive work. They are pros.
  
 
     Posted on Yelp  
   
   Allen Fong .. 
 July 23, 2026
 
 
 Verified Second time using precision tree care. The service was fantastic. I highly recommend them..
Thanks to Ryan, Patty, and Leo and his crew.
  
 
     Posted on Yelp  
   
   Ko I. 
 April 23, 2026
 
 
 Verified +1
We hired Precision Tree Care to deal with several massive trees that were constantly raining leaves onto both our roof and our neighbors'--which meant nonstop gutter clogging and growing concerns about insects. It had become a real maintenance headache.

On top of that, a bunch of small trees had started sprouting everywhere from the seeds constantly dropping from these larger trees. The arborists from Precision Tree Care took care of all of it, pruning everything cleanly and restoring order to the space.

Their team came in and absolutely saved the day. They cleared things out thoughtfully and professionally, and the difference is huge--our backyard now gets much more natural light, and we're no longer dealing with constant debris buildup in the gutters.

The whole process was smooth, and the results exceeded our expectations. Really appreciate the work--thank you, Precision Tree Care!
  
 
     Posted on Yelp  
   
   Andrew S. 
 March 23, 2026
 
 
 Verified Ryan and the Precision Tree Care team did a fantastic job pruning all four of my palm trees. From the start, Ryan took the time to walk me through the different service options and explain what each one actually meant. I didn't know much about palm pruning going in, and he was genuinely patient and thorough in helping me understand what my trees needed. The estimate was professional and straightforward, and he provided several options for me to consider.

On the day of the job, Ryan and the crew showed up on time, worked efficiently, and wrapped everything up faster than I expected. Smooth from start to finish. Highly recommend.
  
 
     Posted on Yelp  
   
   M Y. 
 March 20, 2026
 
 
 Verified Highly recommend working with Precision Tree Care.  This was our second time working with them.  Responsive, easy to schedule and their crew (led by Leo) did a very thorough job on our property.
  
 
     Posted on Yelp  
   
   Greg K. 
 October 18, 2025
 
 
 Verified We've had the pleasure of working with Precision for over 7 years now. They have always been responsive, professional and efficient. Highly recommend working with them.
  
 
     Posted on Yelp  
   
   Red L. 
 September 13, 2025
 
 
 Verified Quote for small job which required coordination with our neighbors to either get on their property or trim their tree that was encroaching on structures on our property. Ryan put us at ease from the start treating us with respect and addressing all our questions with direct and knowledgeable answers. Overall a very professional, direct, respectful and trustworthy business owner with a skillful and quick crew. He came on the day of work as well to check that everything was done according to our agreement. Did not expect that on such a small job. Thank you, we will be repeat customers! Hope this review helps you get more business!
  
 
     Posted on Yelp  
   
   Alana B. 
 August 9, 2025
 
 
 Verified Excellent service!! Quality work, great price point, fantastic customer service. This company is precise, and experienced!! Five stars
  
 
     Posted on Yelp  
   
   Matthew E. 
 August 6, 2025
 
 
 Verified Just had Precision out to care for and trim a few heritage live oaks, one that was on the sick side.  They did a fantastic job.  The team are like artists, and the resulting canopy looks beautiful and also balances a tree that needed some care.  The team was also very responsive, and great to work with on the site.
  
 
     Posted on Yelp  
   
   Lee K. 
 August 4, 2025
 
 
 Verified Although I decided to use a different tree service company because that company was able to work on replacing our existing irrigation, I have no doubt that Precision Tree Care would have done a thorough job.  I met with Ryan, their arborist, and he was extremely knowledgeable and helpful.  Ryan offered some unsolicited advice that I could do on my own to care for my plants and I really appreciated them.  He also offered a very competitive estimate.  I will definitely keep Precision Tree Care in mind for future tree work.
  
 
     Posted on Yelp  
   
   Lance H. 
 July 18, 2025
 
 
 Verified The crew did a wonderful job pruning a large oak tree that was rubbing against my house. They were professional, efficient, and clearly knew what they were doing. They took great care not to damage the property and cleaned up thoroughly afterward. Communication was clear from start to finish, and the price was very reasonable. I highly recommend them and will definitely call them again for future tree work.
  
 
     Posted on Yelp  
   
   Linda T. 
 July 16, 2025
 
 
 Verified +1
Prompt response from start to finish. Arrived on time and worked quickly and efficiently. The crew was polite and very careful of property. The office staff is excellent.
  
 
     Posted on Yelp  
   
   Justin L. 
 June 30, 2025
 
 
 Verified Great experience with these folks. Fantastic communication leading up to the project.

 Leo and his crew made fast work of trimming  the cypress tree in front of our house. Very easy to talk to, accomodating and funny!

Cannot recommend them enough.
  
 
     Posted on Yelp  
   
   Brianna M. 
 April 3, 2025
 
 
 Verified BEYOND impressed with the service by Precision staff!  They not only did an exceptional job, they were polite, courteous, professional,and my yard was actually left cleaner than before they arrived!  No doubt that I will be using them again for any help with the trees on my property!  Thank you guys!! AAAA+++++ service. Highly recommended!
  
 
     Posted on Yelp  
   
   Sarah A. 
 February 26, 2025
 
 
 Verified They were prompt in replying, and the quoting process. Worked with us to update the quote quickly and find a date that worked for us. We had some time restrictions given the school traffic on our street. 

The team came earlier and finished the job very quickly and efficiently. They trimmed the trees to our satisfaction, would definitely use them again. 

Their quoted price was also ~30% less then another quote I got from another company.
  
 
     Posted on Yelp  
   
   Ellen L. 
 December 22, 2024
 
 
 Verified Precision Tree Care have been our "go to" service for tree trimming and tree removal since 2020.  Last week we had a small job that was given immediate attention.  The crew was cordial, attentive and quick.  I am appreciative of the follow-up by Patty and Ryan.  Add this company on your list for tree service.
  
 
     Posted on Yelp  
   
   Carol L. 
 December 19, 2024
 
 
 Verified This is the 3rd time I've used Precision Tree Care to trim and remove trees. My interactions with the office and on site staff have been great. They are timely and efficient, as well as doing a professional job at competitive pricing. Every time, I am amazed at how quickly they get the job done and how well they tidy thing as back to normal afterwards!!!
  
 
     Posted on Yelp  
   
   Janette C. 
 September 6, 2024
 
 
 Verified Ryan and his crew were AWESOME!!  We had four large camper trees trimmed, and one tree removed in our backyard. Their pricing was reasonable and the job was done professionally. Many neighbors have asked who trimmed our trees as they too were impressed with the work performed. We highly recommend.
  
 
     Posted on Yelp  
   
   Jon S. 
 August 21, 2024
 
 
 Verified Precision Tree Care went above and beyond each time we have used there services. There workers are hard working men and deliver to there customers ! Thanks Ryan & Patty  !!  City Of Pacifica
  
 
     Posted on Yelp  
   
   Cathy Plevin P. 
 July 17, 2024
 
 
 Verified Trust me on this,use this fine company for your tree needs.Ryan ,the owner is an arborist who definitely knows how trees grow,fail etc etc. His stellar crew just took some huge limbs off a very large willow at my home today.Crew so incredibly skilled with safety a clear priority. Tree looks so much better and is safer as if a limb fell ,it could cause great harm . They took extra care not to step on or drop anything in newly refreshed flower beds which pleased me also. Thank you Ryan and also Leo and his team.
  
 
     Posted on Yelp  
   
   Haydee A. 
 July 6, 2024
 
 
 Verified They came and gave me a reasonable quote within 48 hours for a tree removal. Highly recommend.
  
 
     Posted on Yelp  
   
   SC S. 
 June 15, 2024
 
 
 Verified Exceptional people, fabulous results!
The team arrived an hour early (in whose universe does that happen?) and talked with me about the job and my expectations. They went to work, did a magnificent job and had a wood chipper to dispose of the tree branches. easy to communicate with and I would hire them again. 
The only complaint I have was the suggestion that lunch was included. Huh?
  
 
     Posted on Yelp  
   
   Jack P. 
 May 8, 2024
 
 
 Verified Had them trim my birch trees and plant a new tree in my backyard.  They were very reasonably priced and did a great job.  I am going to continue to use them for additional landscaping projects and would highly recommend them.

Jack P.
  
 
     Posted on Yelp  
   
   Mary S. 
 April 17, 2024
 
 
 Verified Highly recommend Ryan and his crew of workers at Precision Tree Care.  They just finished trimming three trees for us and we are very pleased with the job.  The crew arrived early but did not start working until 8 am so they would not disturb the neighbors.  Worked quickly and efficiently and had us  approve the final trimming and clean-up before they left.  Will definitely use Precision when our trees need to be trimmed again.
  
 
     Posted on Yelp  
   
   Allen Fong .. 
 March 15, 2024
 
 
 Verified Highly recommended ..
 Patti returned my call within 2 hours.  We set up a date for Ryan to come out to estimate the job.
Ryan came out, we went over what I wanted done and was text an estimate . Accepted the estimate, signed and sent back to Patti .
Leo and his team showed up as scheduled.  Reviewed the work order and got started.  Less then two hours the job was done . The cleanup was like they used a vacuum cleaner.
  
 
     Posted on Yelp  
   
   Christina R. 
 December 3, 2023
 
 
 Verified Outstanding company ! From start to finish. Starting with our estimate, it was very thorough and for the extensive work to be  done surprisingly affordable. We have several very large oak trees in our backyard growing on a steep hill, with the rains last year and the expected rains this year we needed to trim the trees back. Once we signed the proposal we were given a start date. The owner and the foreman came out the day before to go over the job , figuring what needed to be cut and how so the trees look natural while asking for our input and to explain what will happen the next day. The next morning the crew came out and quickly went to work, trimming back all the overgrown trees but keeping in tact the natural shape and future growth in mind. Once the job was done our yard was cleaned immaculately!!
  
 
     Posted on Yelp  
   
   Nancy R. 
 October 9, 2023
 
 
 Verified I have used Precision Tree Care several times.  They are professional from the start with bidding by Ryan, Scheduling by Patti and the outstanding, quiet  and coordinated working of the tree team of highly skilled men managed by Leo who works right along with them.  Their clean up is as impressive as their outstanding tree work.  Highly recommend.
  
 
     Posted on Yelp  
   
   Nora B. 
 September 6, 2023
 
 
 Verified We have a number of large cypress trees in our yard that needed care. After soliciting quotes from four competitors, we settled on Precision Tree Care for trimming of four trees and removal of two. They were neither the most nor least expensive, but throughout the quote process Ryan and Patti provided the most professional service of the companies we contacted. That efficiency and professionalism extended into scheduling and executing the job. Ryan, Patti and the crew completed the work very much to our satisfaction. A wonderful experience! They should be at the top of everyone's list for best tree care service in town!
  
 
     Posted on Yelp  
   
   Samantha Q. 
 August 30, 2023
 
 
 Verified Precision trimmed our two large trees. Fantastic experience overall! They were responsive, experienced, hard working, efficient, and the results look great. Our trees were not easy to shape but they came out looking lovely.

Tree Care in Montara: At the Foot of the Mountain

Montara sits between the ocean and the steep granite face of Montara Mountain, and its trees take the full force of both. Salt-laden northwest wind prunes everything it touches; fog keeps foliage wet and heavy; and the Monterey pine and cypress windbreaks planted around older properties along Sunshine Valley Road and the Farallone View neighborhoods are now aging out – pitch canker in the pines, dieback and lean in the cypress, and windthrow in heavy winter wind. Our crews work this coast year-round and know exactly what a Montara windbreak needs: reduce the sail, remove the failures, keep the shelter.

County Coastal Zone Rules Apply

Montara is unincorporated San Mateo County inside the Coastal Zone, which means the county’s significant tree regulations currently govern private removals: any tree of roughly 38 inches in circumference (about a 12 inch trunk) needs a county permit, with heritage rules protecting certain species further. The county has adopted a new protected tree ordinance that has not yet taken effect in the Coastal Zone, so requirements are genuinely in flux – our ISA Certified Arborist checks the current rules for your parcel and prepares the permit documentation before any cut.

Defensible Space on the Midcoast

Coastside Fire Protection District, staffed by CAL FIRE, runs defensible space inspections in the mapped high hazard zones, and homes against the mountain’s brush line carry real exposure despite the fog. Our fire prevention and brush clearance work creates compliant clearance with documentation for the district. Tree emergencies get a 24/7 response from our home base minutes away in Pacifica. Free estimates: (650) 355-1277.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tree Service in Montara

What does a free estimate include?precisiontree2026-07-21T19:23:52+00:00

What does a free estimate include?

A walk of the property with you, a straight verdict on each tree you are concerned about – keep, prune, cable, or remove – and a written price that includes dump fees, haul-away, and cleanup. We also flag local specifics while we are there: your city’s permit thresholds, and defensible space exposure if your land meets open hillside or brush.

No obligation and no sales theater; if a tree does not need work, we say so. Call (650) 355-1277 or use the contact form.

Which cities and neighborhoods do you serve?precisiontree2026-07-21T18:18:21+00:00

Which cities and neighborhoods do you serve?

All of San Mateo County – 22 communities: Atherton, Belmont, Brisbane, Burlingame, Colma, Daly City, El Granada, Foster City, Half Moon Bay, Hillsborough, La Honda, Menlo Park, Millbrae, Montara, Pacifica, Palo Alto, Pescadero, Redwood City, San Bruno, San Carlos, San Mateo, and South San Francisco.

Within each city we cover every neighborhood, and the crew plans for the local profile – compact lots and mature street trees in The Willows, estate oaks in Atherton, hillside conifers in Sharon Heights, coastal eucalyptus in Pacifica. Estimates are free anywhere in the county, and city permit paperwork is handled in-house.

Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Montara?precisiontree2026-07-16T21:29:44+00:00

Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Montara?

Usually yes for a mature tree. Montara is unincorporated San Mateo County inside the Coastal Zone, so county rules currently apply:

A tree of roughly 38 inches in circumference (about 12 inches across) needs a county permit
Heritage rules protect certain species beyond that
County regulations are in transition – a new protected tree ordinance is adopted but not yet effective in the Coastal Zone

Because the rules are moving, we verify the current requirements for your specific parcel before any cut and prepare whatever documentation the county wants to see. That verification is part of the job.

Why are older pines and cypresses on the Peninsula failing?precisiontree2026-07-21T18:18:22+00:00

Why are older pines and cypresses on the Peninsula failing?

Because they are all the same age. The Monterey pines and cypresses planted through Daly City, Colma, Montara, and the coastside tracts in the 1950s and 60s are now 60 to 70 years old – near the end of their natural span. Add the local conditions and the pattern is predictable:

Pitch canker has weakened much of the pine population
Decades of one-directional ocean wind have built permanent lean and uneven crowns
Salt-laden fog keeps foliage heavy and stressed

When these trees fail, they fail onto houses spaced a few feet apart. An assessment tells you which of yours have years left and which should come down on your schedule instead of the storm’s.

Do you offer stump grinding and stump removal?precisiontree2026-07-21T17:54:50+00:00

Do you offer stump grinding and stump removal?

Yes – stump grinding is one of our most requested services. We use professional-grade stump grinders to remove stumps below ground level, eliminating tripping hazards and preventing regrowth. We serve residential and commercial properties of any size across San Mateo County. Ask about adding stump grinding to your tree removal quote for a bundled discount.

Two details worth asking any provider: how deep they grind (we go below grade so the area can be replanted or re-sodded) and whether backfill and cleanup are included. Both are standard in our price – the ground is level and usable when we leave.

What is the best time of year to trim trees on the San Francisco Peninsula?precisiontree2026-07-21T19:23:50+00:00

What is the best time of year to trim trees on the San Francisco Peninsula?

For most species on the Peninsula, late fall through early spring – the dormant season – is ideal for heavy pruning. It minimizes stress, reduces disease exposure through fresh cuts, and lets the tree channel its energy into healthy spring growth. That said, dead wood, hazardous branches, and fire prevention clearance can and should be done any time of year – waiting until the “right season” is not worth the risk when a branch is a liability.

The big local exception: native California oaks prefer the dry season (July through October) – wet-season pruning invites the pathogen behind sudden oak death. If your yard mixes oaks and ornamentals, the honest schedule is two visits, not one.

How quickly can you respond to emergency tree situations?precisiontree2026-07-21T17:54:49+00:00

How quickly can you respond to emergency tree situations?

We offer true 24/7 emergency tree service across all of San Mateo County – from Daly City and Pacifica to Menlo Park, Half Moon Bay, and Pescadero. Call (650) 355-1277 and our crew mobilizes as quickly as possible, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Commercial properties and maintenance contract clients get priority response – blocked entrances and liability exposure add up fast.

While you wait: keep everyone at least one tree-length away, never approach anything touching a power line, and photograph the scene from a safe distance – your insurer will want pictures taken before cleanup starts. Sending a photo and a gate or access note with your first call means the crew arrives with the right equipment loaded.

How much does tree removal cost in San Mateo County?precisiontree2026-07-21T17:54:50+00:00

How much does tree removal cost in San Mateo County?

Tree removal costs vary based on tree size, species, location, and complexity. A small tree removal typically starts around $300–$600, while large or hazardous tree removal can range from $1,000 to $3,000+. All Precision Tree Care estimates include removal, dumping, and hauling – no hidden fees. Call (650) 355-1277 for your free estimate.

What moves a quote from the low end to the high end: height and trunk size, what the tree hangs over, equipment access, and the tree’s condition – dead trees are slower and riskier to dismantle. Comparing bids? Confirm each includes hauling and dump fees, or the numbers are not comparable.

Coastal Hillside Tree Care in Montara, CA

Call Us (650) 355-1277

Professional Tree Care Services – Montara, CA

View Our Tree Care Services in Montara

Fire Prevention

Stump Grinding & Removal

View Clearing & Fine Pruning

Brush Clearance & Mowing

Challenging Tree Removal

Skid Steer Services

Arborist Reports & Insurance

Crown Reduction & Thinning

Tree Cabling & Bracing

Call Us! (650) 355-1277

Your Local Tree Care Experts in Montara

5 Star Rated Yelp Business

Tree Care in Montara: At the Foot of the Mountain

County Coastal Zone Rules Apply

Defensible Space on the Midcoast

Frequently Asked Questions About Tree Service in Montara

What does a free estimate include?

Which cities and neighborhoods do you serve?

Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Montara?

Why are older pines and cypresses on the Peninsula failing?

Do you offer stump grinding and stump removal?

What is the best time of year to trim trees on the San Francisco Peninsula?

How quickly can you respond to emergency tree situations?

How much does tree removal cost in San Mateo County?

Mid-Peninsula’s Tree Experts. Professional Tree Removal You Can Trust.

Free Wood Chips Available Upon Request.

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